‘Investors should take long-term view’

Taking a long-term view and aiming to “own the market” should be considered by corporate giants looking to invest overseas, a Philippine business tycoon said on Tuesday.

Enrique K. Razon Jr., chairman and president of ports operator International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), said investors should consider areas that at first glance are not seen as prime locations.

In particular, “I’m very bullish about Iran, Congo and Cambodia,” Razon said at the ongoing Forbes Global CEO Conference in Manila.

“We’re taking a very long-term view. We’ve learned from past experience. It’s okay to say that if you make investments in bad places right now, over time, you’ll gain without competition,” Razon said.

With this, an investor may “own the market” in the years ahead.

Given current global volatility, however, he warned investors to be picky and not be swayed by rising markets.

“[One] should be extra selective in putting your money [in a particular market]. You should find value in this market, make money in this market,” the ports magnate said.